Blog Post

Argonne discovery offers new way to coat nuclear materials

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By JARED SAGOFF

Originally published at: https://www.anl.gov/article/argonne-discovery-offers-new-way-to-coat-nuclear-materials

Inside an operating nuclear reactor, the environment is extreme, as reactor components are exposed to a combination of intense radiation and heat as well as chemically reactive coolant. That’s why, in order to operate reactors safely, scientists need to design their components with materials that can withstand these conditions.

Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory have made a pivotal discovery by taking a technique originally developed for the semiconductor industry and using it as a way to coat nuclear materials. This technique, called atomic layer deposition (ALD), forms the basis of new methods to protect nuclear fuels and materials from direct exposure to the reactor’s hostile environment.

“We are pioneering the use of ALD for nuclear applications,” Argonne nuclear engineer Abdellatif Yacout.

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Blog Post

Argonne Fuels Energy Start-ups

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Argonne National Laboratory is accelerating more than protons these days. Through its Chain Reaction Innovations (CRI) entrepreneurship program, Argonne is accelerating the development of new businesses that are tackling the challenges of producing and conserving energy with new, cost effective and environmentally-sustainable technologies. Argonne is located in Lemont, Illinois, west of Chicago. It is owned by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) and operated by the University of Chicago. It is one of the largest and most scientifically diverse research centers in the world. The CRI program is supported by the Advanced Manufacturing Office within DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.

This summer, with the first four startups graduating from the program, CRI innovators have raised about $12.4 million in funding as of Aug. 1, 2019. Out of that total, more than $5 million has come from private equity sources, and the rest has some from various organizations – including DOE – that offer open funding opportunities.

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Event

How to Communicate Facts in the Era of Fake News – SOLD OUT

Scientific literacy remains low among the U.S. adult population, resulting in an ever-growing divide in our society. C2ST wants to change that. This Chicago Ideas Week Lab is all about how to communicate complicated material in digestible chunks that expand understanding and facilitate more productive conversations. Through a series of collaborative exercises and activities, C2ST will demonstrate how good public speaking can elevate the effectiveness of your communication strategies. Bring an engagement initiative unique to your goals and by the end of this Lab you’ll have a fully formed plan for how to articulate your message with success.

Weren’t able to get a ticket before they sold out? Join us online for a live stream of the event here.

C2ST in the News

Give Time, Things, Support: 7 Ways to Give Back Around Chicago

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By Lily Yu

Originally published at: https://better.net/chicago/philanthropy/get-involved/give-time-things-support-ways-give-back-around-chicago/

Your family is probably soon headed back to a school-year schedule, but don’t let the busyness of a new academic year leave you without time for others. Consider adding these volunteer and give-back opportunities to your calendar.

Give Time

Reading Power

This organization knows that “all children deserve to reach their intellectual potential.” That’s why they offer one-on-one tutoring to kids in pre-K through 2nd grade at underserved schools. Reading Power is increasing its program and is in need of more tutors. Learn more about becoming a tutor and fill out the Tutor Application.

Greater Chicago Food Depository

If you have an extra hour to spare, sign up for a repack session and take the time to repack large quantities of food into individual servings so that it can be redistributed to food pantries for those in need. If you’re feeling especially competitive, have a friendly competition between you and your friends to see who can repack the most within the given time. You’ll be surprised to see how fast time flies and how much can get accomplished.

 

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